Conservation based on geographical data collection

Google Earth Engine this year released the news that they are developing a google map product for species conservation purposes. This map of life is finally released in January 2015. This product identifies the locations of species on the map and connects it to both biological information and suitable habitats for the species. The map is made possible by remote sensing and geographical information system. The google research official blog uses Tamaulipas Pygmy Owl as an exmaple to illustrate the function of this map, species biological information, abundance data and habitat range of the species. A online example for play is available here.

Remote sensing is a powerful tool to provide data and information for conservation purposes. The uniqueness of remote sensing is that it provides global, long-term, reliable information on spatio-temporal changes of species' response to human-related change, especially land use (Pettorelli et al., 2014). Remote sensing uses satellite data to monitor abiotic conditions and disturbances, land cover, shallow benthic conditions and vegetation structure (Pettorelli et al., 2014). Researchers also use remote sensing data to detect poaching activity (Rashidi et al., 2014) and assess the difference between habitat adaption behavirours of endanger species groups. Remote sensing aerial photography techniques also can be applied  to count species population (Sirmacek et al., 2012), and hyperspectral remote sensors are used to identify invasive plants, assess habitat suitability and model future spread of invasive species (He et al., 2011).

Apart from remote sensing data, other data form can also be made into geospatial mapping format. Simon Pooley is a researcher at Imperial College London. One of his research is to collect information on crocodile attacks, record the location and other information and load it into a attack incidence map. Such map is useful for local villagers to have knowledge about local blackspots, and also beneficial for conservationists to conduct research and implement measures to protect local species. Geographical information is critical for both local life protection and conservation of species. Except data, geographical mapping can also be adopted as a tool to map conservation priorities, conservation investments and other components of conservation to better promote decision making and resource distributtion.